Mika Baur has revealed a conversation with former Celtic winger Nicolas Kuhn helped convince him that the Hoops was the perfect next step in his career.
The 22-year-old was today confirmed as Celtic’s fourth signing of the summer, joining from Bundesliga newcomers Paderborn on a four-year deal.
Baur had been on the Hoops’ radar since early in the window and, despite negotiations dragging on, Celtic finally managed to get their man.
Now in Glasgow ahead of this weekend’s Premier Sports Cup clash with Dundee United, the Germany Under-21 international is convinced he has made the right decision.
Asked why Celtic was the correct destination for him, Baur told the club’s YouTube channel: “It is absolutely the right move here. It is a great club, it is big.
“I just heard incredible things about the fans, about the nights, Champions nights. Celtic are the champions. I want to win something. I think I am in the right place for that.”
Baur also offered supporters an insight into what they can expect from him, describing himself as a confident midfielder who wants to get on the ball and make things happen while also bringing plenty of fight.
He said: “I think I can be a playmaker. I love to have the ball on my feet, always be there, not scared to take it. My play style is really confident. I am a good technical player and I always play my heart on the field. I fight; everyone can expect that.”
Baur also sought advice from Kuhn before committing his future to Celtic.
The pair are represented by the same agency, and Kuhn — who left Celtic in a £17million move to Como last summer — had a simple message for his fellow German.
Baur explained: “Yes, I did [speak to Kuhn]. We are in the same agency, so I called him and asked a couple of questions. He was so positive. He said, ‘If you have the chance, just do it,’ because he can’t explain it, you have to feel it. It was incredible and after the call with him, it was sure for me.”
Baur is still waiting to experience Celtic Park under the lights for himself, but he already has an idea of what awaits after watching the Hoops face RB Leipzig in the Champions League from home.
He added: “I did. I remember a Champions night against Leipzig. I watched on TV on the couch at home. You can feel it from sitting at the TV. You can feel it, you can see it, the emotions in the stadium. That is what I am here for.”
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